A welcoming historic brasserie with tasty, approachable lunches and high tea, though lodging-related booking and check-in problems are a meaningful caution for overnight guests.
Het Oude Kantongerecht stands out for its warm, attentive hosting and well-prepared lunches, breakfasts, and snacks in a historic setting. Its food quality is strong, though food consistency wavers in reviews of the changed high-tea format, which keeps it just short of the very top tier. Central Apeldoorn placement and a calm atmosphere make it a dependable choice for diners.
Het Oude Kantongerecht is a relaxed daytime brasserie in a striking historic former courthouse, right in central Apeldoorn near the market and surrounding cafés. Guests repeatedly describe a warm welcome, spacious atmosphere, and staff who keep the experience running smoothly; one family said everyone was smiling and attentive throughout brunch. The food is approachable Dutch brasserie fare rather than a chef-driven destination menu: think croquettes, uitsmijter, soup, toasties, carpaccio, smoked salmon, cakes, and a playful eight-snack tasting. The current menu is especially well suited to an easy lunch, coffee stop, or organized celebration. High tea is popular and attractively presented, although one diner found the newer mostly vegan version less recognizable as a traditional high tea. For families, this is a practical choice for daytime visits. A review specifically calls it baby- and toddler-friendly, and the menu offers familiar options such as toasties, soup, fries, sandwiches, and cake. Parents should be more cautious about booking the B&B: shared bathrooms, a strict check-in window, and several reported booking problems can overshadow an otherwise lovely meal.
Area vibe: Transport hub with mixed retail and hospitality near the station.
Safety: Generally safe with regular foot traffic and decent lighting around the station at night.
What's nearby: Adjacent to Apeldoorn station, local shops, hotels, and short walk to De Parken and city centre amenities.
The menu ranges from €5.75 daily soup and €10 Dutch classics to a varied high tea with both savory and sweet bites.
Expect an easy daytime meal in a historic setting, but check the high tea format and B&B policies carefully before booking.
A spacious former courthouse creates a warm, relaxed backdrop that works especially well for daytime meals and celebrations.